In the ever-evolving world of fashion, some styles remain timeless and ever-relevant. Among these, the Old Money Aesthetic stands out for its blend of sophistication, tradition, and understated luxury. Popularized in recent times through social media trends and classic literature, this aesthetic draws inspiration from those who embody a quiet, refined elegance, often associated with generational wealth and high societal standing.
But what exactly makes this style so enduring? The Old Money Aesthetic is not just about high-end brands or elaborate garments; it's a holistic approach to dressing and living that emphasizes quality, simplicity, and heritage. This guide will explore the essence of Old Money style for men, including key wardrobe pieces, grooming tips, and the philosophy behind this classic look. Whether you're aiming to integrate subtle luxury into your wardrobe or fully embrace a refined way of life, understanding the Old Money Aesthetic can offer timeless insights and inspiration.
Polo Shirts for Casual Elegance
Sometimes, you want to effortlessly embody the Old Money Aesthetic with a touch of casual charm. That's where the classic polo shirt comes into play. The beauty of the polo shirt is that it demonstrates the adaptability of the Old Money Style. It's not confined to formal gatherings; it effortlessly becomes a part of your everyday life, carrying with it a timeless charm and grace that can be appreciated no matter where you go.
So, embrace casual elegance with a well-crafted polo shirt, and make Old Money style an integral part of your everyday wardrobe. Whether you favor classic navy or opt for more muted earthy tones, your polo shirt can seamlessly complement your existing wardrobe.
Versatile Pairings: Pair it with well-fitted chinos and a pair of stylish tassel loafers, and you have a look that's both relaxed and effortlessly elegant. Add a well-tailored blazer, and you've got an ensemble that's polished and perfect for a more formal affair.
What is Old Money Aesthetic?
Before diving into the practical aspects, let's get to the heart of the Old Money Aesthetic - because it is more than just a fashion trend; it's a way of life with a deep-rooted appreciation for tradition. It represents a set of core principles and values that have transcended generations, characterized by timeless elegance and understated refinement. This aesthetic is associated with the upper class, typically those who have inherited wealth over generations, and it reflects a deliberate preference for quality over quantity.
The Old Money Aesthetic places importance on classic, well-tailored clothing, modest yet exquisite accessories, and a commitment to good manners and social grace. It's a lifestyle that exudes a sense of permanence and enduring sophistication, emphasizing the notion that true luxury is not in extravagance but in the preservation of timeless traditions and values. Embracing the Old Money Aesthetic means adopting a manner of living that mirrors a bygone era's gentility and poise.
Old Money Style: Embracing Timeless Wardrobe Staples
To fully embrace this style, you'll need classic clothing items that form the backbone of the Old Money look. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the significance of each of these wardrobe staples:
- Impeccable custom-made suits
- Sophisticated blazers
- High-quality dress shirts
- Versatile polo shirts
- Classic dress pants
- Refined chinos
- Contemporary jeans
- Supreme tuxedos
- Appropriate footwear
Suits and Tailoring
When it comes to suits, the perfect fit is the holy grail of the Old Money Aesthetic. It's all about a suit that complements your body's unique shape and size, creating a polished, confident look. Key elements include a well-fitted shoulder, a tapered waist, and trousers that break just above the shoe.
Bespoke tailoring is the pinnacle of suit craftsmanship. Custom-made suits are tailored to your exact measurements and preferences, ensuring an impeccable fit and a one-of-a-kind garment. Traditionally, this level of tailoring came at a higher cost,
Choosing Classic Colors: Navy, charcoal gray, and medium to dark shades of brown are the go-to choices. They exude understated elegance and versatility, allowing you to dress them up or down for various occasions.
Patterns: In terms of patterns, opt for subtle choices like pinstripes, herringbone, or classic checks. These patterns add depth and sophistication to your suits while maintaining a sense of tradition.
The Essence of Dress Shirts in Old Money Style
In the world of the Old Money Outfits, dress shirts play a central role, serving as the very cornerstone of this classic style. They're not just garments; they're a reflection of understated elegance and an unwavering pursuit of sartorial excellence. Here's why they matter:
Symbol of Formality: Dress shirts stand as the embodiment of formality within the Old Money style. Their clean lines and structured design make them the go-to choice for formal events, important business meetings, and refined gatherings.
Quality Above All: Quality reigns supreme in Old Money style. Fabrics such as Egyptian cotton (check out our all cotton dress shirts), oxford, and linen are favored for their comfort, breathability, and longevity.
Versatile Companions: Dress shirts are remarkably versatile, seamlessly complementing suits, blazers, and even jeans when you're aiming for a more relaxed yet refined appearance.
Tailoring Excellence: Tailoring is a non-negotiable aspect. The Old Money Aesthetic insists on a perfect fit, with an emphasis on well-fitted shoulders, ideal sleeve length, and a body-hugging design that flatters your physique.
Attention to the Details: Paying heed to the finer details, such as the choice of different collar styles like Mao shirts or club collar, cuffs, and subtle patterns like stripes, adds depth and sophistication to your ensemble.
Personalization with Accessories: Dress shirts serve as a canvas for accessories like ties and cufflinks, allowing you to inject your style with a personal touch. Consider adding stitched monograms, a subtle yet powerful symbol of family tradition, to further embrace the Old Money aspect.
Elevate Your Lower Half with Dress Pants
To infuse your everyday attire with the Old Money Aesthetic, dress pants stand out as a remarkable choice. These trousers are a perfect embodiment of enduring elegance, effortlessly blending comfort and style into a single piece of clothing. Whether in classic hues like navy, charcoal gray, or modern shades, the secret lies in ensuring your dress pants are tailored to perfection. This personalization guarantees a fit that's nothing short of impeccable, reflecting your unique style.
Sophisticated Combinations: Pair your dress pants with a well-tailored dress shirt and a classic blazer, and add the finishing touch with leather dress shoes like monk strap shoes. The result is a sophisticated ensemble suitable for a range of occasions, from formal gatherings to business meetings.
Chinos As Versatile Essentials
To encapsulate the Old Money Aesthetic in your daily attire, chinos are a revelation. These trousers epitomize adaptability, harmonizing comfort and style in one. Chinos grant you the liberty to navigate your daily pursuits with effortless ease, all while radiating the enduring charm and grace of the Old Money Aesthetic. They're a testament to the idea that style should feel as natural as it looks.
Smart-Casual Ensemble: Be it classic hues like khaki, black, or contemporary shades, the magic lies in ensuring your chinos are tailored to perfection. Couple your chinos with a well-tailored button down shirt, or a long-sleeve polo shirt and a pair of polished horsebit loafers, and you've got a look that exudes discreet sophistication. The addition of a timeless blazer elevates your attire, making it suitable for a spectrum of occasions.
Jeans As A Modern Twist to Old Money Aesthetic
While jeans may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the Old Money Aesthetic, they have found their place in modern interpretations of this classic style. The key to incorporating jeans into the Old Money look is to choose high-quality, well-fitted denim in dark washes. These jeans should be tailored to fit you perfectly, maintaining the elegance and refinement that the aesthetic demands.
Contemporary Elegance: When paired with a well-tailored blazer, a crisp white dress shirt, and casual leather dress shoes, jeans can add a touch of contemporary flair to the Old Money Aesthetic.
An Evolution of Style: It's a fusion of timeless tradition and a nod to the present, illustrating that the Old Money style can adapt and evolve while maintaining its core principles of sophistication and grace.
Tuxedos: The Pinnacle of Old Money Elegance
Tuxedos reign as the ultimate symbol of sophistication and refined taste. In essence, tux are the embodiment of Old Money elegance, symbolizing a commitment to timeless values, an appreciation for refined tradition, and an unwavering dedication to grace. These impeccably tailored ensembles are reserved for the most formal and prestigious occasions such as black tie affairs and galas.
Opt for a timeless black tuxedo, featuring a single-breasted jacket, satin lapels, and pair it with a tuxedo shirt, a bow tie, cummerbund, and cufflinks.
Here's why the classic black tuxedo it's the right choice for capturing the essence of an old money style:
- The Old Money Aesthetic demands the highest level of formality, and the classic black tuxedo delivers just that
- It exudes a sense of tradition and unwavering refinement
- The classic black tuxedo never goes out of style
- It's an ideal investment for those who appreciate both the past and the present
Not sure what defines a tuxedo?? Then check out our blog post about the difference between a suit and a tuxedo.
Outerwear: The Old Money Signature
The outerwear layer, which often serves as your first impression, ought to be a carefully chosen masterpiece in itself. Let's shed light on the key staples and what makes them extraordinary:
The Tweed Fieldjacket: A sartorial masterpiece hailing from the English countryside. This fieldjacket encapsulates the essence of classic elegance. Its textured fabric and earthy hues evoke a sense of heritage and refinement. Layer it over a simple knit sweater or a crisp, white shirt for an effortlessly stylish look.
The Trench Coat: The trench coat, an icon of military origin, has been embraced by Old Money aficionados worldwide. Its slim silhouette and clean lines exhibit a tailored finesse. When choosing a trench, pay attention to its length and the quality of its fabric – opt for the mid-thigh length and a water-resistant material for both style and practicality.
The Camel Overcoat: This timeless classic drapes you in the understated luxury that is emblematic of Old Money style. The exquisite camel coat exudes warmth and sophistication in equal measure. What sets it apart? Its simplicity and versatility. A well-tailored camel coat complements both formal and casual ensembles, standing the test of time with impeccable grace.
The Duffle Coat: The duffle coat is a symbol of enduring style with a maritime touch. Its toggle fastenings and roomy hood make it both distinctive and practical. Crafted from heavy wool, it's perfect for keeping you cozy on blustery days, while the classic design ensures it remains a fashionable choice.
Remember, the devil is in the details. Pay heed to fabric quality, fit, and construction when selecting your outerwear. These pieces are not just garments; they're statements of enduring style that transcend time and trends. So, choose wisely, and let your outerwear convey the refinement of your classic taste.
Conclusion
Embracing the Old Money Aesthetic involves more than just wearing classic clothing; it's about adopting a lifestyle that values tradition, refinement, and understated elegance. By incorporating these timeless wardrobe staples and adhering to the principles of quality and grace, you can achieve an air of sophistication that transcends trends and stands the test of time.
FAQs
What defines the Old Money Aesthetic?
The Old Money Aesthetic is characterized by timeless elegance, understated refinement, and a preference for quality over quantity in clothing and lifestyle.
What are key wardrobe staples for Old Money style?
Impeccable suits, sophisticated blazers, high-quality dress shirts, versatile polo shirts, classic dress pants, chinos, and tuxedos.
How should a suit fit in the Old Money style?
A suit should fit perfectly with well-fitted shoulders, a tapered waist, and trousers that break just above the shoe.
What colors are best for Old Money suits?
Navy, charcoal gray, and medium to dark shades of brown are ideal for their understated elegance.
What fabrics are preferred for Old Money dress shirts?
Fabrics like Egyptian cotton, oxford, and linen are favored for their comfort and longevity.
